Though I have a 30 year background in selling chemicals.......after working for a big player, I now own my own small business and find I really have to generate more interest in other types of products to keep business alive. I just donot want to sell janitorial products, I go a few steps above.
Any comments on your experiences?????
There is a decrease in the amount of chemicals being used used, Don't have the report in front of me but businesses are downsizing what they use and trying to limit it to 3 or 4. there is the debate about green this and that but I think diversity may be one route. Microfiber systems have come a long way. How they use microfiber and chemicals in hospitals is an interesting example.
As for disinfection and cleaning I think dry steam may finally be able to find greater use stateside. Europe has used it effectively for years. Also keeping it simple old reliable products like vinegar, baking soda etc still have a place IMO. Foaming soaps work well, last longer and should produce cost savings fro the buyer.
There is also a great need for good trainers, which may be an add on. Being in the industry for 30 years, you know the products, the MSDS, what's safe what isn't.
I'd suggest trying a site like http://www.careeronestop.org/Skills/SkillCenterPgTwo.asp you can put together some ideas and use other resources for some ponder fodder. on the top left use some of the other links re: Occupations and it will give growth areas , etc.
There is also Onet which gets into the green economy hope it proves useful
http://www.onetcenter.org/green.html
Ancillary service is popular now. Big corporations are looking to vendors who provide bundled service offerings along with janitorial. Seek out the products that fit the added services offered by those vendors.